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Heavy panting on the dog and bone

NOW that millions of humans own mobile phones, their makers have begun to sniff out a fresh market. For about £100, the first device designed for dogs will provide a new way for owners to communicate with lost or lonely pets.

The PetsCell uses the same technology as conventional mobile phones but is shaped like a bone and attached to the dog’s collar. Whenever an owner needs to speak to their dog they can dial the number and the phone connects automatically after the first ring.

The dog is able to hear the owner through the speaker on the phone and can bark in response.

PetsMobility, the company launching the product, plans to put it on sale in America by August and in Britain by December.

A variant of the phone, with a video camera, will allow owners to see if their dog is misbehaving while they are out. If